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Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Thank You Letter from the Calgary Police Service

A Thank You letter from the Calgary Police Service, posted on their Facebook page.

Thank You Calgary!

The past week, we all came together as a community, to respond to the worst natural disaster in Calgary’s history. From the initial emergency response, to the evacuation of more than 75,000 Calgarians, to the recovery efforts that are now underway, this crisis has defined our community. To our fellow Calgarians who lost so much, know that our hearts and prayers are with you.

Each and every day we witnessed your loss, your sacrifice and the kindness and compassion you shared with one another. We were also overwhelmed by the appreciation and support you gave us. From the many companies and individuals who arrived at our headquarters building with food and supplies, to the individual acts of kindness on the street far too many to mention. Please know that your thoughtful gestures – hugs, fresh baked cookies left on the trunk of a cruiser or the thank you notes shared on social media or tucked under a wiper blade – all meant a great deal to us as we supported flood-related activities.

The biggest thanks, however, should be reserved for you. Calgarians displayed an unbelievable level of patience, understanding and cooperation, as we moved to stabilize our city and started to rebuild the communities affected. You allowed us to do our work and offered unquestioned support and encouragement as we did. Where else but in Calgary could you have a disaster of this magnitude, yet see the preservation of law and order remain throughout? Where else but in Calgary would you see major businesses suspend operations, and encourage employees to support clean-up efforts, or arrive on scene with equipment, generators and supplies – all at no cost? You stood shoulder to shoulder with us during the past week and may never know the true impact your contributions had in the success of managing this disaster.

We also want to thank our media partners for the incredible job they have done throughout this crisis. You played a pivotal role in keeping our families and all Calgarians up-to-date and informed, as the days and long hours moved along. Our job was made easier because of the outstanding job you did in pushing out critical information to the community in a timely manner. You sought out the truly important stories that offered hope and inspired others during these desperate times.

Finally, we wish to acknowledge the great work that was done by Mayor Naheed Nenshi, Chief Bruce Burrell, our incredible partners in the Calgary Emergency Operations Centre, and the amazing emergency response partners that we had the privilege of working with during these long days and nights.

Our work is not done yet, and we know we have a long and arduous road ahead of us. But we also know we have an incredible city, incredible citizens, and a spirit and resiliency that will see us better and stronger than ever.

We are proud to be part of that team and thank you for everything you have done in support of us.